Even today many materials in our lives do not just come from factories, but have a plant origin. The demand for native materials seems to be on the increase. Local hardwood has a varied range of applications in Scotland. Scots pine is used to make fencing posts and hardboard. Oak is used for window frames, furniture and boats. Harps are made from ash wood.  Birch is not only suitable for firewood but also for the production of floors. And all native hardwoods, especially imperfect pieces with lots of character, are wanted by craftsmen and artists. Ancient skills using local plants are very much alive. Baskets are made from willow, hazel, ash, reeds, hedgerow materials and birch bark. Museums and holiday houses may be thatched, using reeds, rushes, sedges and heather. These are just a few examples of Scottish plants used for materials.

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